Law #42: Strike the Shepherd and the Sheep Will Scatter — A Writer's Guide

The forty-second law in The 48 Laws of Power, "Strike the shepherd and the sheep will scatter," focuses on addressing the root of a problem to neutralize its effects. For writers, this principle applies to overcoming challenges in storytelling, career development, and audience engagement. By identifying and resolving key obstacles, you can unlock your full creative potential and ensure your work has a lasting impact.

Here’s how to apply this law to your writing journey effectively.

Solving Problems at the Core of Your Story

Great stories often revolve around conflict and resolution. Applying this law means addressing the central issue driving the tension in your narrative.

1. Identify the Core Conflict:

• The "shepherd" in your story is the central source of tension. Resolve this, and the story progresses naturally.

• Example: In The Lord of the Rings, the One Ring is the core conflict, and destroying it scatters Sauron’s power.

• Application: Pinpoint the root of your story’s conflict and focus on resolving it in a way that feels satisfying and earned.

2. Focus on the Protagonist’s Internal Struggles:

• Often, the "shepherd" is the protagonist’s fear, flaw, or misbelief.

• Example: In A Christmas Carol, Scrooge’s transformation comes from addressing his greed and emotional isolation.

• Application: Explore your protagonist’s internal conflicts deeply, ensuring their resolution drives the narrative forward.

3. Eliminate Redundant Subplots:

• Side plots that don’t contribute to the main conflict dilute your story’s impact.

• Example: Stories that maintain a tight focus, like To Kill a Mockingbird, achieve greater emotional resonance.

• Application: Edit ruthlessly, removing elements that don’t serve your central story arc.

Addressing Challenges in Your Writing Career

Every career has obstacles, whether they’re internal doubts or external setbacks. This law teaches you to tackle the root cause of these challenges.

1. Confront Self-Doubt:

• Negative self-talk or imposter syndrome can derail your progress.

• Example: Many successful authors, like Neil Gaiman, have admitted to moments of doubt but pushed through by focusing on their work.

• Application: Recognize and challenge limiting beliefs about your abilities, replacing them with actionable steps toward your goals.

2. Identify the Source of Career Stagnation:

• If your progress feels blocked, look for the root cause—lack of marketing, poor time management, or unclear goals.

• Example: Self-published authors often succeed by prioritizing marketing strategies tailored to their audience.

• Application: Evaluate your current strategy, pinpoint weak areas, and address them systematically.

3. Address Toxic Relationships:

• Negative influences in your professional circle can undermine your confidence and productivity.

• Example: Surrounding yourself with supportive critique partners or mentors fosters growth.

• Application: Distance yourself from individuals or groups that drain your energy or creativity.

Strengthening Reader Engagement

When building your audience, addressing barriers to connection can create a stronger, more loyal following.

1. Resolve Miscommunication:

• Misaligned expectations between you and your audience can lead to dissatisfaction.

• Example: Clarifying your genre or themes ensures readers know what to expect, preventing mismatched expectations.

• Application: Communicate clearly in your marketing materials and online interactions.

2. Focus on Reader Pain Points:

• Readers often gravitate toward stories that address their emotional or intellectual needs.

• Example: Romance readers seek emotional catharsis, while thriller fans crave suspense and resolution.

• Application: Understand what your target audience values most and deliver it consistently.

3. Address Negative Feedback Constructively:

• Instead of ignoring or resenting criticism, look for actionable insights.

• Example: Brandon Sanderson credits early feedback for helping him refine his epic fantasy worlds.

• Application: View critiques as opportunities to improve, responding professionally and with gratitude.

Overcoming External Challenges

Sometimes, the obstacles you face come from industry dynamics or competition. Striking the "shepherd" in these cases means addressing systemic issues.

1. Understand Market Trends:

• Staying ahead of trends helps you avoid getting lost in a crowded market.

• Example: Authors like Colleen Hoover leverage TikTok trends to amplify their visibility.

• Application: Research your genre and adapt your marketing strategies to align with current reader interests.

2. Resolve Contractual Issues:

• Unfavorable contracts or disputes with publishers can derail your career.

• Example: Taylor Swift’s public battle for her music rights highlights the importance of understanding contracts.

• Application: Hire a professional to review contracts, ensuring your rights and interests are protected.

3. Address Saturation by Differentiating:

• In a crowded field, standing out requires innovation.

• Example: N.K. Jemisin’s genre-defying Broken Earth trilogy redefined epic fantasy and attracted a broad audience.

• Application: Identify what makes your work unique and emphasize it in your branding and storytelling.

Avoiding Pitfalls

While striking the shepherd is powerful, it must be done thoughtfully to avoid unintended consequences.

• Don’t Act Impulsively:

  • Rash decisions can create new problems.

  • Solution: Take time to analyze the situation and consider the long-term effects of your actions.

• Avoid Blaming the Wrong Source:

  • Misidentifying the root cause can waste energy and resources.

  • Solution: Take a step back and assess the issue from multiple perspectives.

• Be Mindful of Collateral Damage:

  • Overcorrecting can alienate allies or readers.

  • Solution: Address the issue surgically, focusing on resolution without unnecessary fallout.

Conclusion: Target the Root, Not the Branches

Law #42, "Strike the shepherd and the sheep will scatter," reminds writers to address the root causes of challenges in their stories, careers, and audience relationships. By focusing on the central issues rather than superficial symptoms, you can create more impactful work, build stronger connections, and navigate obstacles effectively.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #43, "Work on the hearts and minds of others," and how building emotional connections with your audience can amplify your success. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.